Peters Visits BAE Systems in Sterling Heights, Meets with SE Michigan Defense Suppliers

Sterling Heights, MI – Today, U.S. Senator Gary Peters visited military contractor BAE Systems in Sterling Heights to see a demonstration of the Bradley A3 Fighting Vehicle, an armored combat vehicle manufactured by BAE. Peters, who was recently appointed to the Senate Armed Services Committee, also held a roundtable discussion with local defense suppliers to hear how he can support Michigan’s growing defense manufacturing sector that benefits both America’s military and Michigan’s economy. Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, also serves on the Senate Homeland Security Committee.

“Michigan’s defense manufacturing sector is playing a key role in developing and supplying the technology that helps America’s men and women in uniform complete their mission safely and effectively,” said Senator Peters. “I am proud that Michigan workers at companies like BAE Systems and its suppliers are developing solutions to meet the challenges of the future of warfare. As a new member of the Armed Services Committee, I am committed to supporting these manufacturers so they can continue to supply our servicemembers with the best equipment and vehicles.”

Many Michigan auto manufacturers and suppliers have diversified into defense and aerospace manufacturing. With U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) and TACOM Life Cycle Management Command housed at the Detroit Arsenal in nearby Warren, Michigan has the unique nexus of military assets, engineers, manufacturers and suppliers that can make the state a defense manufacturing hub. 

“Leveraging the good work already happening at TARDEC and TACOM with Michigan’s talented workforce of engineers, suppliers and manufacturers will help ensure Michigan leads the way in military and defense innovation,” added Senator Peters.

“BAE Systems is a proud leader in the Michigan Defense Industry and is excited to host Senator Peters at the company's Sterling Heights facility,” said Mark Signorelli, Vice President & General Manager, Combat Vehicles BAE Systems. “The facility is home to 400 engineers and program personnel who provide critical support to key military programs.”

BAE Systems’ Sterling Heights facility focuses on engineering, prototyping and program management of several military combat vehicles, including the Bradley Fighting Vehicle and AMPVs (armored multi-purpose vehicles). The facility includes a test track for development and testing of new vehicle technologies. BAE System supports local organizations including the Michigan Fallen & Wounded Soldiers Fund to Michigan Military Moms and the FIRST Robotics competition.